crucifixion

noun

cru·​ci·​fix·​ion ˌkrü-sə-ˈfik-shən How to pronounce crucifixion (audio)
1
a
Crucifixion : the crucifying of Christ
b
: the act of crucifying
2
: extreme and painful punishment, affliction, or suffering

Examples of crucifixion in a Sentence

the crucifixion of the rebel Spartacus
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These included a child buried face down, a skeleton positioned as in a crucifixion, graves with stones placed around the skull as if to prevent biting or movement, as well as other graves with sickles and padlocks. — Katie Hunt, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026 The cross did much worse to the one whom Christians believe to be the human incarnation of God, yet Jesus’ followers believed that his very crucifixion was the key to unlocking the revelation of God’s grace. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026 There, devotees annually re-enact Christianity’s holiest week in an amateur performance that culminates with the crucifixion of some participants. — H.m.a. Leow, JSTOR Daily, 10 July 2026 The film famously includes Jesus' flagellation and crucifixion, which are depicted in gruesome detail, while his resurrection is glimpsed briefly at the end of the film. — Britt Hayes, Entertainment Weekly, 26 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for crucifixion

Word History

First Known Use

1530, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of crucifixion was in 1530

Rhymes for crucifixion

See All Rhymes for crucifixion

Browse Nearby Words

crucifix fish
crucifixion
crucifixion thorn
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Cite this Entry

“Crucifixion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crucifixion. Accessed 30 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

crucifixion

noun
cru·​ci·​fix·​ion ˌkrü-sə-ˈfik-shən How to pronounce crucifixion (audio)
1
capitalized : the crucifying of Jesus
2
: an act of crucifying

More from Merriam-Webster on crucifixion

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about crucifixion

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